Leighton Beach - California beach taken on 35mm film
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Leighton Beach

4.6
·205 reviews·, Australia

A stunning stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching. Dog-friendly zones add to its appeal.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May - October

Prime whale watching season

CrowdMedium
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Leighton Beach - California beach taken on 35mm film

Leighton Beach

Best Time

May - October

Prime whale watching season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching. Dog-friendly zones add to its appeal.

4.6
(205 reviews)

"Fab white sand beach. All good. Don't tell anyone else - we don't want it to get too crowded!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots.

🐳 Respect Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whale Encounters

Whale Encounters

Shoreline

Witness majestic Southern Right Whales and their calves just meters from the beach. An unforgettable wildlife spectacle!

TikTokInstagram+1
Calm Waters

Calm Waters

Main beach area

Enjoy gentle waves perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Ideal for families and relaxed beach days.

InstagramReddit
Dog-Friendly Zone

Dog-Friendly Zone

Northern end

Bring your furry friends to play on the sand and splash in the water. A paradise for pups and their owners!

Instagram+1
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Whale Watching Wonders

Leighton Beach is a prime spot for whale watching, especially during migration seasons. Keep an eye out for Southern Right Whales and their calves close to shore. It's a magical experience, but remember to respect their space and observe from a safe distance. TikTokInstagram+1

Parking & Crowds

While Leighton Beach offers ample parking, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and whale sightings. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk. The beach is popular with locals, so expect company, particularly on the dog-friendly northern end. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
May - October
Why
Prime whale watching season
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visitors today at Leighton Beach. @Western Australia @Australia
@shotbylukewilliams
12.1K likes • 168.2K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots. InstagramReddit

🐳 Respect Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior. TikTokReddit

I have no words 🐋 Pinch me moment at Leighton Beach in Perth✨ #perth #whales #whv417 #workingholiday #australia
@travelswithbk
10.6K likes • 152.7K views
Few visitors today at Leighton Beach 🐳 @westernaustralia @australia @7newsperth
shotbylukewilliams
1.3K likes • 29.4K views

🐶 Doggy Day Out

The northern section is leash-free for dogs! Perfect for your furry companions to enjoy the sand and sea. Instagram+1

☕ Beachside Bites

Grab a coffee or acai bowl at The Beach Bus cafe. Pups are welcome too! Instagram

Is Leighton Beach Perth’s best beach? Here’s why we think it’s a great contender. 👇👇 Very popular with anyone living south of the river, Leighton Beach, just north of Fremantle, stretches for 1.5 kilometres and offers calmer conditions than the neighbouring beaches. And the northern side of the beach is dog-friendly, making it the perfect place for your pup to paddle! 🐶 With great toilet facili...
perth.local
448 likes • 10.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots. InstagramReddit

🐳 Respect Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior. TikTokReddit

🐶 Doggy Day Out

The northern section is leash-free for dogs! Perfect for your furry companions to enjoy the sand and sea. Instagram+1

☕ Beachside Bites

Grab a coffee or acai bowl at The Beach Bus cafe. Pups are welcome too! Instagram

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your snorkel to explore the clear waters. You might even spot some marine life! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(205 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Leighton Beach is widely praised for its beautiful white sand, calm waters ideal for families, and convenient amenities like parking and cafes. Visitors also rave about the rare and exciting opportunities for whale watching. Some find the beach can get crowded, and dog presence is high on the northern end.

"Lovely beach.
Easy parking. Green promenade. Nice environment. Cafe. Toilets with changing areas and showers.
Fab white sand beach.
All good. Don't tell anyone else - we don't want it to get too crowded!
😎👍👍👍👍"

Mark Poley

"Pictures from the end of March. The beach has too many people bringing dogs (in majority) and the water turns dark quickly."

Philip Karlsson

"Good beach with plenty of parking. The beach also has a big changing room with shower and toilets. Compared to other beaches in Perth, Leighton is one of the calmest there is for family with kids. Very ideal for picnics!"

Luan Phan

What People Like

Beautiful white sand
Calm, family-friendly waters
Whale watching opportunities

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
High dog presence (north end)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Leighton Beach is easily accessible by car, located just north of Fremantle. There's ample parking available along Leighton Beach Boulevard. Public transport options include buses that run frequently from Fremantle. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a large parking area along Leighton Beach Boulevard. However, it can get very busy, especially during peak whale watching season or on weekends. Arriving early is recommended. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! There are dedicated cycle paths along the coast, making it a scenic and enjoyable ride to Leighton Beach. Bike racks are available. Instagram

The promenade and cafe area are generally accessible. While the sand itself can be challenging, many visitors find the beach enjoyable with assistance. Instagram

You can take a train from Perth CBD to Fremantle Station and then catch a bus (e.g., the 103 or 150) towards Leighton Beach. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service is a quicker option. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Leighton Beach is a public beach and entry is free for everyone. Instagram

Leighton Beach is open 24/7, as it's a public natural space. However, facilities like toilets and showers have set operating hours, typically from sunrise to sunset. Instagram

There's no need to book in advance for general beach access. However, if you plan to visit with a large group or for an event, it's advisable to check local council regulations. Instagram

The main restriction is regarding dogs, which are only permitted off-leash on the northern section of the beach. Alcohol consumption is generally permitted but must be consumed responsibly. Instagram

Leighton Beach offers public toilets, changing rooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and a children's playground. There's also a popular cafe nearby. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Leighton Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing on the sand. It's also a fantastic spot for whale watching during migration seasons. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Leighton Beach is very family-friendly due to its calm waters and gentle waves, making it safer for children. There's also a playground nearby. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming. Lifeguards are often on duty during peak seasons, but always swim between the flags if available. Instagram

The sand at Leighton Beach is described as beautiful, pure white, and soft. It's a lovely expanse for sunbathing and walking. Reddit

Leighton Beach is popular and can get crowded, especially on weekends and during whale sightings. However, its long stretch of sand means there's usually space for everyone. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, The Beach Bus cafe is located right on Leighton Beach, offering acai bowls, coffee, and other beachside treats. It's also dog-friendly. Instagram

Certainly! There are picnic tables available, and the spacious beach is perfect for spreading out a blanket. Remember to take all your rubbish with you. Reddit

Leighton Beach is close to Fremantle, which offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Instagram

The Beach Bus typically operates throughout the year, but it's always a good idea to check their social media or website for current opening hours, especially during off-peak seasons. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. Just ensure you clean up after yourself. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunities are undoubtedly the whales close to shore. The expansive white sand, clear blue water, and sunsets also make for stunning shots. TikTokInstagram

Sunsets are spectacular at Leighton Beach, casting a warm glow over the ocean. Early mornings can also offer beautiful light with fewer people. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Western Australia. Always check with the local authorities and ensure you have the necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and ocean. A telephoto lens is essential for wildlife photography, especially for whale watching. TikTok

The promenade offers elevated views, perfect for panoramic shots. For close-ups of whales, the shoreline itself provides the best vantage point. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Leighton Beach is a top choice for families thanks to its calm, shallow waters that are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. Unlike some of Perth's wilder beaches, the gentle waves here significantly reduce the risk of unexpected tumbles. Reddit The beach also boasts a playground nearby, offering an alternative to sand and sea for entertainment. Instagram

Practical amenities like changing rooms, showers, and toilets make managing a day out with children much easier. The presence of picnic tables also encourages relaxed family meals with a view. For a treat, The Beach Bus cafe offers kid-friendly options like acai bowls. Instagram Remember that while parking is available, it can get busy, so planning your arrival time is key to a stress-free family outing. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Leighton Beach is a dream destination for dog owners, with a dedicated off-leash area on the northern end of the beach. Your furry friends can roam freely, chase waves, and socialize with other pups in a safe and spacious environment. Instagram+1

The Beach Bus cafe is also a bonus, as it welcomes dogs, allowing you to enjoy a coffee or snack with your pet by your side. The wide expanse of sand means there's plenty of room for both dogs and their owners to enjoy the beach without feeling cramped. Instagram Just be mindful of other beachgoers and ensure your dog is well-behaved and under control, even in the off-leash zone. Instagram

🌊 Water Sports Enthusiasts

For those who love to be on the water, Leighton Beach offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and paddleboarding. The consistent, gentle breezes and relatively calm waters provide an ideal playground for both beginners and experienced riders. Instagram

If you're looking for a more relaxed aquatic experience, the calm swimming conditions are perfect for a refreshing dip or a leisurely swim. Snorkelers will also find the clear waters inviting, with opportunities to observe marine life close to shore. InstagramReddit While not a major surf break, the gentle waves can still be fun for bodyboarding or learning to surf. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Whale Watching at Leighton Beach

Leighton Beach has become a renowned spot for whale watching, particularly during the southern right whale migration season, which typically runs from May to October. Visitors have reported seeing mothers and their calves incredibly close to the shore, sometimes just tens of meters away. TikTokInstagram+1 These gentle giants create a truly magical spectacle, drawing crowds of excited onlookers. It's a testament to the health of the local marine ecosystem that such large cetaceans are comfortable in these relatively shallow waters. TikTok

When whale sightings occur, the beach buzzes with activity as people gather to witness the incredible display. Social media is flooded with videos and photos of these encounters, highlighting the unique experience Leighton Beach offers. TikTok+2 While the excitement is palpable, it's crucial to remember the importance of responsible wildlife viewing. Visitors are urged to maintain a respectful distance, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from using flash photography to ensure the whales are not disturbed. Reddit The presence of these magnificent creatures transforms a beautiful beach into an extraordinary natural amphitheater.

It's worth noting that while initially identified as humpbacks by some, further observation and expert advice suggest they are more likely Southern Right Whales due to their distinctive features. Regardless of the species, the experience of seeing them so close is consistently described as breathtaking and a 'pinch me' moment. TikTokReddit The calm waters of Leighton Beach provide a safe haven for these whales and their calves, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their lives. Instagram+1

Beach Activities and Amenities

Leighton Beach is celebrated for its calm and gentle waves, making it an ideal destination for a variety of water activities. It's a favorite for families with young children, as well as for those who prefer a more relaxed swim compared to the more exposed surf beaches. Snorkeling is also popular here, with the clear waters offering good visibility to explore the underwater world. InstagramReddit

Beyond swimming and snorkeling, Leighton Beach is a hub for windsurfing and paddleboarding. The consistent, gentle breezes make it perfect for these sports, and you'll often see enthusiasts gliding across the water. The northern end of the beach is a designated dog-friendly zone, allowing your canine companions to run freely and enjoy the sand and sea off-leash. This makes it a truly inclusive spot for all members of the family, furry ones included! Instagram+1

Complementing the natural beauty are the excellent amenities. The Beach Bus cafe provides a convenient spot for refreshments, offering acai bowls and coffee right by the beach, and it's notably dog-friendly. Instagram Public facilities include toilets, changing rooms, and showers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit. Ample parking is available, though it can fill up quickly, so an early arrival is often recommended. Reddit

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